“Free Palestine, Free Palestine,” the suspect shouted after being apprehended.
A young Israeli couple, both embassy staffers, were fatally shot Wednesday night outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., police confirmed. The pair were leaving a “Young Diplomats Reception” hosted by the American Jewish Committee when a man opened fire on a group of four.
Washington Metropolitan Police Chief Pamela Smith said the suspect, Elias Rodriguez, 30, of Chicago, was detained by security after entering the museum. “Once in handcuffs, the suspect identified where he discarded the weapon,” Smith stated.
Witnesses reported hearing Rodriguez shout, “Free Palestine, Free Palestine.” Authorities say he has no prior criminal record.
Israeli Ambassador Yechiel Leiter revealed, “He purchased a ring this week with the intention of proposing to his girlfriend next week in Jerusalem.”
Former U.S. President Donald Trump decried the “antisemitism” behind the attack. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu added, “We are witnessing the terrible price of antisemitism.”
The FBI is investigating the attack as a potential act of targeted violence.